Santa Cruz: City need to improve

25 May 2010 09:22

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Roque Santa Cruz recognises Manchester City have underachieved and expects big-money signings to boost a title challenge next season.[LNB] City only managed to finish fifth in the Premier League in 2009/10, despite the heavy investment of billionaire owner Sheikh Mansour.[LNB]Santa Cruz, who arrived from Blackburn last June, admits it was a disappointment not to at least qualify for the Champions League and has demanded improvements. [LNB]"It has been a very tough season with a lot of new players," he told a press conference broadcast on Sky Sports News. "A new team has been built up.[LNB]"We didn't achieve what we expected and of course we can't say that we are happy. [LNB]"I think that the pressure is going to grow for us because of the kind of money that the owner is spending on the club."[LNB]He added: "We expect next year to not only do well, but also to see if we can fight for the title."[LNB]Santa Cruz was an acquisition of former boss Mark Hughes following their successful time together at Blackburn.[LNB]But Hughes' sacking in December 2009, the striker's injuries and the appointment of new manager Roberto Mancini meant that first-team opportunities were not always guaranteed among City's squad of stars.[LNB]Santa Cruz, though, does not fear extra signings and expects more arrivals over the summer.[LNB]"I wouldn't be surprised to see a couple of famous faces around the club," said Santa Cruz, who is preparing for the World Cup finals with Paraguay. [LNB]"I think that once the market starts moving we will see more. But I am sure we will have new signings and new people coming."